November 18, 2021 [Charlottetown, PE] – BIOTECanada welcomes today’s announcement
by Innovation, Science and Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne concerning Atlantic Canada’s biomanufacturing sector. The joint announcement of investment in expanding BIOVECTRA’s capacity to manufacture mRNA vaccines, to create a specialty Biologics Manufacturing facility in Charlottetown, PEI by expanding current fermentation and synthetic capabilities is a significant development for the Canadian life sciences ecosystem and Canada more broadly as it looks to prepare for future health crises and rebuild the economy following the COVID-19 pandemic. BIOVECTRA, in partnership with the Governments of Canada and Government of Prince Edward Island will together invest $79.6 million to enhance existing facilities and construct a new structure for the manufacturing of mRNA, resulting in an additional 125 jobs to the already 675 in PEI and Nova Scotia.
“BIOVECTRA is a prime example of Canada’s life sciences sector’s ability to build on existing
biomanufacturing expertise to establish the biotechnology industry as central to solving for
future health crises and the economic recovery which lies ahead. Companies and governments are working together, augmenting Canada’s competitiveness in attracting investment and talent. All told, the additional manufacturing capacity and its corresponding jobs, from today’s announcement will not only support Canada’s ability to prepare for future pandemics but will also help accelerate the economic recovery following the COVID-19 crisis. Ultimately, Canada is well-positioned to be a leader in the global bio-economy bringing forward solutions to the enormous challenges population growth and a changed environment presents,” commented Andrew Casey, President and CEO BIOTECanada.
BIOTECanada is the national industry association and lead voice with over 200 members of the biotech ecosystem located nationwide, reflecting the diverse nature of Canada’s health,
industrial and agricultural biotechnology sectors. With unprecedented global issues including the climate crisis, food sustainability and human health needs, the biotechnology industry can play a central role in solving for challenges while also delivering significant economic benefits, including investment and jobs.
For more information:
Nadine Lunt
613-230-5585 X257
Nadine.lunt@biotech.ca